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Johann Sebastian Bach's Allemande and Courante in A major, BWV 838, are two movements from his "French Suite No. 6 in E Major." Here are some interesting facts about these pieces:

1. French Suites: The Allemande and Courante are part of a set of six keyboard suites that Bach composed, known as the French Suites. Despite their name, these suites are not exclusively French in style. The title likely refers to the fashionable dance forms that were popular in France during Bach's time.

2. Allemande: The Allemande is a dance movement in a moderate tempo. It is characterized by its binary structure, consisting of two repeated sections. In Bach's keyboard suites, the Allemande often serves as the opening movement and is known for its stately and expressive qualities.

3. Courante: The Courante is another dance movement, typically faster than the Allemande. It is also structured in binary form. The Courante can be further classified into two types: the French Courante, which is faster and more lively, and the Italian Corrente, which is generally quicker. Bach's use of the Courante in the French Suites showcases his mastery in adapting various dance styles.

4. Key of A major: The French Suite No. 6 is composed in E major, and each of its movements explores different keys within that tonality. The choice of A major for the Allemande and Courante provides a bright and resonant tonal palette. Bach's ability to exploit the unique characteristics of different keys is a testament to his compositional skill.

5. Baroque Dance Suite: Bach's French Suites, including the Allemande and Courante in A major, belong to the Baroque dance suite tradition. These suites typically consist of a standardized set of dance movements such as Allemande, Courante, Sarabande, Gavotte, and Gigue. The use of dance forms allowed Bach to infuse his keyboard music with rhythmic vitality and a sense of order.

6. Expression and Ornamentation: Bach's keyboard suites are not just exercises in form; they also provide ample opportunities for expressive playing and ornamentation. Performers often add their own embellishments and interpretations to these works, reflecting the improvisational spirit of the Baroque era.

7. Legacy: Bach's French Suites have endured as significant contributions to the Baroque keyboard repertoire. They continue to be studied, performed, and appreciated for their blend of structure, expression, and dance rhythms. The Allemande and Courante in A major showcase Bach's ability to combine technical brilliance with emotional depth.